If your heat pump breaks down, it can impact your indoor comfort, especially during extreme temperatures. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if your heat pump stops working:

1. Verify Thermostat Settings: Verify that the thermostat is set to the proper temperature and mode (heating or cooling). Sometimes, incorrect settings can lead to perceived breakdowns.

2. Check Power Supply: Ensure that the heat pump is receiving power. To determine whether the heat pump’s circuit has tripped or if a fuse has blown, check the circuit breaker or fuse box.

3. Reset the Heat Pump: Some heat pumps have reset buttons. Reset your heat pump according to the manufacturer’s instructions if it has one and you feel comfortable doing so.

4. Examine the Air Filter: The performance of the heat pump may be impacted by a dirty or clogged air filter that restricts airflow. Check and clean or replace the air filter as needed.

5. Inspect the Outdoor Unit: If you have a split-system heat pump, check the outdoor unit for debris, leaves, and obstructions. Verify that the fan is spinning freely.

6. Check for Error Codes: Some modern heat pumps have LED displays that show error codes. To find out what the error codes mean, refer to your heat pump’s handbook.

7. Make a Professional Call: It’s best to contact a qualified HVAC specialist who specializes in heat pump repairs if the aforementioned solutions don’t fix the problem. Heat pumps are complicated systems, and trying to fix them without the right knowledge can make the issue worse.

8. Stay Comfortable: Use alternative heating or cooling methods in the meantime, such as space heaters or fans, to maintain indoor comfort.

9. Preventive Maintenance: Heat pump malfunctions can be avoided with routine maintenance. To keep your heat pump operating effectively, think about planning regular maintenance inspections.

10. Safety Considerations: Make sure the alternative heating method you’re using is safe and doesn’t present a fire risk. Additionally, if you have a gas furnace as a backup, ensure that the gas supply is turned on if needed.

11. Examine Your Warranty: If your heat pump is covered by a warranty, find out if the breakdown is covered by reading the terms and conditions. Contact the manufacturer or your installer for assistance.

Keep in mind that heat pump systems require both electrical and refrigeration components, so only experts with the requisite training should do repairs. Put your comfort and safety first by getting expert help to identify and fix the problem.